An afternoon of dance, music and games will be freely offered to Sutton’s older people next month to commemorate an international occasion.

Age UK Sutton is hosting an ‘Afternoon Tea Dance’ for the borough’s elderly people as part of the United Nations International Day for Older Persons on Sunday October 1.

The Holiday Inn hotel on Gibson Road will play host from 2pm to 4pm.

The day is also Silver Sunday, an annual day of activities for the UK’s elderly.

Nicola Upton, CEO of Age UK Sutton, said: “Older people contribute so much to our society. This event is not just to mark Older People’s Day; it is to celebrate later life and Sutton’s older people, and acknowledge the integral part they play in our community and our lives.

“We’ve created what we hope is a very special event that older people in Sutton will enjoy. Our heartfelt thanks to the Holiday Inn Sutton who have generously donated the venue for the event, as well as some fabulous prizes for guests to win. Thank you also to Free Cakes for Kids Sutton, Tierney’s Catering, and Morrisons Sutton who have very kindly agreed to help us with refreshments.

“We want to make this a special day for Sutton’s older people, especially since we intend to invite residents who we know are particularly isolated or don’t get out much, and for whom an event like this is a real treat.”

Simon Wales, Deputy Leader of Sutton Council, will officially open the event and welcome guests.

He commented:“I look forward to being part of this joyous community event that not only celebrates our borough’s older people, but also raises awareness of issues such as loneliness that many older people face in later life.

“I urge residents to tell older people about this event and encourage them to come along, and help them, for example, by reserving seats online or driving them to the event.”

An award will be given to the best dressed for the snazziest interpretation of the ‘silver’ theme.

The Afternoon Tea Dance is free to attend. Places must be reserved by calling 020 8770 4510.